Actualization of Economic Ideas of P.A. Kropotkin in the 21st Century

Abstract

Kropotkin, thanks to his encyclopedic knowledge, was able to create a whole body of works, laying a comprehensive scientific foundation for anarchism and studying possible ways of practical implementation of anarchist ideas. Kropotkin’s economic ideas were kept in secret for a long time and were inaccessible to the Russian reader. Now, Kropotkin’s books stir constant and increasing interest among domestic economists. The relevance and prospects of Kropotkin’s approach to understanding the importance of mutual assistance in the economy, his research on ethics and collaboration, are highly appreciated. With the development of digital technologies, Kropotkin’s ideas about voluntary collaboration and altruism are being embodied in the practice of networking. Kropotkin’s views on the shortcomings of public administration, on the importance of cooperation and self-sufficiency of regions, on the perniciousness of specialization and division of labor are becoming particularly relevant today. It is necessary to note the importance of Kropotkin’s Siberian work experience in the formation of his worldview and teaching. It can be stated that Kropotkin returns to us as an actual thinker and economist, and his ideas about mutual aid, cooperation, community federations, regional independence, interregional collaboration, etc. will be increasingly in demand by both scientists and practitioners of social and economic management.